法苑珠林 89.59

89.59

This category has four parts: first, determining the lineage-nature; second, determining the arousal of the mind; third, determining the gradual or sudden; fourth, properly receiving the precepts. The first asks: "You, so-and-so, good man or good woman, Dharma sister or Dharma sister who listens to the Dharma, are you a bodhisattva or not?" The reply is: "I am." It is permissible whether the precept master asks while seated or standing. The reason sitting is permissible is that the precept master may be old and lacking strength. The reason standing is permissible is that the precept master may be young and possessing strength. "So-and-so" refers to the personal name given by one's parents and teachers, and does not mean invoking titles of one's illustrious clan, an emperor, or a prefect. Even if invoked, the precepts will not arise; it merely turns one's back on the Dharma to pursue worldly sentiments, which is not the rite of honouring the Way.